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Special Meals Planned During March and April at Kentucky State Parks

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Ham and Red Eye Gravy at Aurora Landing, Kenlake State Resort ParkHam and Red Eye Gravy at Aurora Landing, Kenlake State Resort Park

I’m always telling you how outstanding the food served at Kentucky State Parks is. If you’ve heard me praise them once, you’ve heard me praise them a thousand times.  That’s why I’m particularly excited to tell you about these upcoming special meals and events.

During March and April, guests can enjoy a number of excellent meals at a resort park.

Several state resort parks will hold events and weekends featuring a special dinner, and all 17 resort parks will serve a traditional Easter Sunday buffet on April 8. Some parks have regular monthly dining specials in their restaurants – check the park website for details.

Here is a listing of special meals during March and April. For more information, or to make lodging reservations, visit www.parks.ky.gov

March 1

Barren River Lake State Resort Park: American Indian Foods

Join Barren River State Resort Park for its culinary “Tour of America,” for American Indian foods from across the Plains on March 1. The cost is $14.95 per person plus tax and drink. Call 1-800-325-0057.

March 3

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park: International Classic Cuisine – Ireland

Celebrate the food of Ireland at Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, with its monthly International Classic Cuisine dinner. The menu will include corned beef, Dublin coddle, Irish chicken, Irish soups, vegetables, desserts and more. Dinner is served 5-8 p.m. The adult price is $14.99 and children 12 and under $6.99 (tax, drink and gratuity not included). Call 1-800-325-0083.

March 3

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park: Appalachian Supper

Enjoy an evening filled with hand-clapping, foot stomping, good old fashioned fun and delicious food at this wild game style dinner buffet. While you dine, you’ll enjoy the sounds of traditional Appalachian music. The cost for adults is $17.95, and children ages 12 and under are $8.95. Ages 5 and under free. The buffet will be served from 4-8 p.m. Call 1-800-325-0142 for more information.

March 10

Rough River Dam State Resort Park:  Buffalo Buffet

The Buffalo Buffet will be Saturday night, March 10, the same weekend as the park’s Future Sportsman’s Event. The Future Sportsman’s Event will be a weekend for young people with instruction on hunting, fishing and the great outdoors. The buffet will feature many favorites such as roasted round of buffalo, duck and dumplings, and rabbit pot pie. The cost is $18.95 plus tax for adults, children 6-12 can eat for $9.95 plus tax. Call 1-800-325-1713 for reservations and details.

March 10

Lake Barkley State Resort Park:  Dinner Theater – A Tribute to Johnny Cash

Lake Barkley State Resort Park will be host to another edition of its popular dinner theater series on March 10 with “A Tribute to Johnny Cash.” Ralph Curtis & The Tennessee Three will perform 6:30-9 p.m. as you enjoy the buffet. Curtis & The Tennessee Three have been entertaining crowds across the county, performing Cash’s greatest hits including “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk the Line” and “A Boy Named Sue.” Tickets are $35 per person and include dinner and entertainment. Call 1-800-325-1708 for reservations.

March 11

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park: Country Buffet

This buffet will be served 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature barbecue ribs, fried chicken, catfish, roast beef, vegetables and an assortment of desserts. The cost for adults is $12.99 plus tax and gratuity. Children 5 and under eat free. Call 1-800-325-0058.

March 15

Pine Mountain State Resort Park:  Frontier Night

A special menu for Frontier Night includes elk carved on the line, elk stew, buffalo meatloaf and barbecue, frog legs, catfish, fried chicken, vegetables, soups, salad bar and desserts. Adults are $18.95 and children 12 and under are $10.95 (tax and tip not included). Buffet served 5-9 p.m. Call 1-800-325-1712.

March 22

Barren River Lake State Resort Park:  Traditional American Foods

Join Barren River State Resort Park for its culinary “Tour of America” for foods from Boston on March 22. The cost is $14.95 per person plus tax and drink. Call 1-800-325-0057.

March 23

Rough River Dam State Resort Park:  Nifty ’50s Dinner and Show

Enjoy music from the ’50s performed by the Pine Knob Theater Players in “Daddy Took the T-Bird Away.” Overnight packages are available that include one night’s lodge room, dinner for two, show tickets for two and breakfast for two for $120 plus tax. The dinner and show only is $50 plus tax per couple. Call 1-800-325-1713.

March 24

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park:  Elk and Bison Buffet

Kentucky Dam Village will host an Elk and Bison Buffet and Kentucky Frontier Heritage Day on March 24. The event will feature a special buffet from noon to 8 p.m. including homemade elk meatloaf, Italian elk sausage, slow-roasted steamship of buffalo, bison cubed steaks, bison chili and more. The buffet will also feature fresh fried chicken, fried Cajun stew, vegetables, assorted cobblers and pies. The buffet for adults is $19.95 plus tax and for children ages 12 and under, $9.95 plus tax. At 4 p.m., guests can listen to a Kentucky Chautauqua program about Dr. Ephraim McDowell, the father of abdominal surgery. L. Henry Dowell portrays this famous Kentucky physician in a program sponsored by the Kentucky Humanities Council. There will also be sessions on pottery making, cornhusk doll making and storytelling from 5-8 p.m. These programs are free. For more information, call 1-800-325-0146.

April 7

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park: International Classic Cuisine – All-American Dinner

Enjoy Greenbo Lake’s International Classic Cuisine this month with an All-American Dinner. The menu will include hamburgers, hot dogs with sauce, barbeque chicken, beef pot roast, fried catfish, fried chicken, pizza, apple cobbler, hot banana pudding and hot fudge sundaes. Dinner is served 5-8 p.m. The adult price is $14.99 and children 12 and under $6.99 (tax, drink and gratuity not included). Call 1-800-325-0083.

April 8

All Resort Parks:  Easter Buffet

Kentucky State Resort Parks will be offering the annual Easter Buffet meals on April 8. The dinners will be served from noon to 8 p.m. at all 17 resort parks. The menu includes beef carved on the line, baked country ham, golden fried catfish and hushpuppies. The meal will also include fresh fruit, a cheese bar, garden vegetables, salad and desserts. The price for adults is $18.49 and children (12 and under) are $8.49, not including tax. The price includes a beverage.

April 13-14

Kenlake State Resort Park: Dueling Chefs Dinner Theater

Kenlake will host its Dueling Chefs Dinner Theater. The park’s chef, Bob Engleman, and another local chef will compete while preparing dinner for guests in this Twilight Theater production. The cost is $40 a person for the dinner and show. For reservations and more information, call 270-436-2399. For lodging information and reservations, call the park at 1-800-325-0143.

April 21

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park:  Hillbilly Night

It’s time for Hillbilly Days again in eastern Kentucky! Enjoy a festive supper with roasted pig carved on the line, fried chicken, barbecued ribs and all the trimmings, including assorted vegetables and desserts. The event is held the same weekend as the annual Hillbilly Days festival in nearby Pike County. Call 1-800-325-0142.

April 26

Lake Barkley State Resort Park:  Red Hatters Afternoon at the Races

Lake Barkley is celebrating the Kentucky Derby atmosphere with an afternoon especially for Red Hatters. Come dressed in your finest Red Hatter’s Derby outfits and get ready to have a great time! At this pre-Derby celebration Red Hatter’s will enjoy lunch, tea and an afternoon race-themed activity. The program is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and the cost is $12 a person. Reservations are required. Contact Mary Schmidt at 1-800-325-1708.

April 27

Rough River Dam State Resort Park: Nifty ’50s Dinner and Show

Enjoy music from the ’50s performed by the Pine Knob Theater Players in “Daddy Took the T-Bird Away.” Overnight packages are available that include one night’s lodge room, dinner for two, show tickets for two and breakfast for two for $120 plus tax. The dinner and show only is $50 plus tax per couple. Call 1-800-325-1713.

Filed Under: Barren River Lake SRP, Featured, Greenbo Lake State Resort Park, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Kenlake State Resort Park, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Kentucky State Parks, Lake Barkley SRP, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Rough River Dam State Resort Park Tagged With:

Winter Events in January and February at Kentucky State Parks

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Tree Silhouetted During Winter Sunset, Kentucky, USA

Tree Silhouetted During Winter Sunset in Kentucky

People in Kentucky (and most places, for that matter) make the mistake of thinking that winter is JUST for sitting inside, eating, and watching college basketball.  I don’t have anything against sitting or eating and I love college basketball (how could you NOT when you live in the state of Kentucky – home to two of the most exciting programs in the country?!?!). However, humans don’t need to hibernate with the bears. Doing so just leads to extra pounds.. for us and them!

There’s still plenty of beauty to get out and see, and plenty of places to visit. In fact, you’ll find the crowds smaller and traffic much more agreeable. Plan a trip to a Kentucky State Park this weekend – and don’t forget your camera. If you visit one of the Kentucky State Resort Parks, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious hot meal in the dining room.  Most offer gorgeous views, buffet bars as well as menus, friendly staff, and some of the best coffee you’ve ever had.

Below are some of the winter events you can take advantage of at Kentucky’s State Parks.

If you’re looking for some winter adventure, the Kentucky State Parks have numerous outdoor events planned in January and February to get you outdoors and moving.

They include elk viewing tours, hikes, looking for eagles at the Land Between the Lakes and watching sandhill cranes as they migrate through Kentucky.

One of the most popular events is the Winter Adventure Weekend Jan. 27-29 at Carter Caves State Resort Park at Olive Hill. The weekend includes hiking, canoeing, recreational tree climbing, cave tours, winter survival, rappelling and other adventures. Guests will be able to select from a list of trips they want to take – for beginners and advanced winter adventurers alike. All of the trips and events are led by guides. The list of the trips, along with registration information and other details for the 2012 event are available at www.winteradventureweekend.com. All participants must register online at this site. The nonrefundable fee for adults (age 13 and older) is $25, and the nonrefundable fee for children ages 6-12 is $20. (All participants must be at least 6 years old. Some trips have additional age requirements.). For more information, call Carter Caves at 1-800-325-0059.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Pineville is hosting the Hike the Highlands Winter Getaway Jan. 13-15. Join the expedition to hike 8 miles on three guided hikes in one weekend. Gaze out across the Cumberland Mountains from Knobby Rock in the midst of the celebrated Blanton Forest. Stand on the mountain peak where Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia adjoin and feel the weight of history in the saddle of the Cumberland Gap Pass. Investigate a Native American camp in a sandstone rockhouse, relive the folk history of the legendary Chained Rock and examine a natural arch on the vaulted south slope of Pine Mountain. Registration is required. The park is offering a lodging package for $170 for two. Call 1-800-325-1712 for information.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Corbin is hosting its Arches and Waterfall Weekend Jan. 13-15. Enjoy a weekend of guided hikes to explore some of Kentucky’s natural treasures: natural arches and waterfalls. There will be a daily morning hike and a daily afternoon hike to different natural features. Relax in the lodge and enjoy evening programs. Call the park at 1-800-325-0063.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park at Prestonsburg and Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park at Buckhorn resume elk viewing tours in January. This is one of several excellent wildlife viewing tours offered by the Kentucky State Parks. Call the parks for details and reservations or visit www.parks.ky.gov (Jenny Wiley is 1-800-325-0142; Buckhorn Lake is 1-800-325-0058.)

Three parks in western Kentucky will offer Eagle Watch Weekends in January and February. The parks and dates are: Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park at Gilbertsville, Jan. 20-22; Lake Barkley State Resort Park near Cadiz, Jan. 27-29; and Kenlake State Resort Park near Aurora, Feb. 3-5. Tours are conducted by van and by boat with wildlife guides. Call the parks or visit www.parks.ky.gov for more information and reservations.

Barren River Lake State Resort Park will offer its Nature Watch Weekends for sandhill cranes, Jan. 20-21 and Feb. 17-18. Participants can register for morning or afternoon trips led by naturalists. Registration is $30 per person and includes an evening session, a sunrise or sunset field trip, boxed meal and a T-shirt. Call the park at 1-800-325-0057 for information and reservations.

John James Audubon State Park at Henderson will host several Owl Prowls during January and February. These free trips begin at 3:30 or 4 p.m. Guests should bring cameras or binoculars to see avian predators like short-eared owls, great horned owls, prairie merlins, rough-legged hawks, northern harriers, bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. The hikes are scheduled for Jan. 8 and 22 and Feb. 5 and 19. Meet at the main boat ramp at Bluegrass Fish and Wildlife Area in Warrick County, Ind. Call 1-270-826-2247 for information.

For more information about these events and Kentucky State Parks, visit www.parks.ky.gov

Photo Credit: The gorgeous Photographic Print at the top of the page is available from Allposters.com.  More Kentucky Posters and Prints

Filed Under: Barren River Lake SRP, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Carter Caves State Resort Park, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, John James Audubon State Park, Kenlake State Resort Park, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, Kentucky State Parks, Lake Barkley SRP, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Winter Photo Weekend Jan. 27-29 at Pine Mountain

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Nikon Digital Camera

Photographers, you’ll want to mark your calendars now. As I’ve said a gazillion times (okay, a galillion and two, but who’s counting?), Kentucky’s State Resort Parks offer AMAZING photo opportunities for amateur and professional photographers. Even if you aren’t necessarily into photography, grab a camera and head to the nearest Kentucky State Park. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with photography soon enough.

I love that our State Parks often offer photo weekends and special events for photographers. Beautiful Pine Mountain State Resort Park has a Winter Photo Weekend set for the last of January. Read on for the details!

Cold Weather Adventure and Winter Photo Weekend

Pine Mountain State Resort Park will again provide cold-weather adventure with Winter Photo Weekend set for Jan. 27-29.

The event features a digital photography competition with divisions for both amateur and accomplished photographers, impressive evening picture shows, and the exceptional photographic work and instruction of Richard Bernabe, an acclaimed outdoor and nature photographer and writer from South Carolina. Clients such as the National Geographic Society, Audubon, and Backpacker Magazine have published his images worldwide in books, calendars, and magazines.

The weekend event is a quest that leads you on a discovery trek to out-of-the-way places where raw nature resides. Woodlands, waters, weather and wildlife are all part of the experience, and it all takes place at one of the park system’s finest natural resorts. The evenings feature spectacular picture shows offered by our guest professional, and the wonderful dining and cozy accommodations on hand at the rustic lodge round out the experience.

The weekend’s agenda focuses on nature and offers up four competition categories in two divisions. There’s both an amateur and accomplished class of competition, so participants are competing only against photographers of similar skill. Participants always enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that permeates the mountaintop resort in winter.

If you’re looking to get out in the frosty air to stretch mind and body, Pine Mountain’s Winter Photo Weekend just may be the adventure you’re looking for. Don’t worry about the snow; the park has its own snow plow/salt truck and life goes on, regardless of the weather and conditions. Besides, you just might be lucky enough to be on hand when the snow comes. An ample snowfall not only enhances the picture-taking prospects, but the brooding evergreens covered in snow on the vaulted slopes and craggy cliffs of Pine Mountain are a truly splendorous sight!

A special package will be offered for this year’s event that includes two nights’ accommodations, two evening meals and admission to all shows as well as the competition. The event package for one person is $139 (plus tax); the package for two persons is $189 (plus tax). The fee for the photo program only is $30 a person. Registration is required. To register or to make a reservation, phone the park’s Guest Services Desk at 800-325-1712 and mention the Winter Photo Weekend.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park has a lodge, cottages, Mountain View Restaurant, an award-winning golf course, an interpretive center and hiking trails.

Photo Credit: The Digital Camera pictured at the top of the post is the amazing Nikon COOLPIX L120 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 21x NIKKOR Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens and 3-Inch LCD (Black)

Filed Under: Featured, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Flowers and Feathers Weekend at Pine Mountain State Resort Park April 29 – 30, 2011

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Owl

Kentucky is on the brink of getting all dressed up for spring. Kentucky is always a beautiful state but when she dresses herself in Spring, it’s a breathtaking sight.

Make that many sights!

One such place you can see Kentucky showing off her spring wardrobe is Pine Mountain.

Glorious spring adorns the vaulted slopes of Kentucky’s Pine Mountain in a cloak of green and the lush forest enters an enchanting period of flowerings. By late April, the blooming of wildflowers is nearing its peak, and an assortment of warblers can be observed migrating through Kentucky. Now, there’s an adventurous weekend opportunity to celebrate the occurrence of both!

Pine Mountain State Resort Park

will host its Flowers and Feathers Weekend April 29-30.

Guests will enjoy guided outings that will include seek-n-find wildflower hikes, a misty morning bird walk and a how-to wildflower photography field trip. Enjoy Breakfast with the Birds by the dining room windows as the park’s naturalist directs observation and build your own take-home bluebird box in a hands-on workshop session. Feature evening programs will showcase spectacular wildflower photography, lovely native wildflowers and shrubs, and an up-close live birds of prey show featuring barn owl, great horned owl, peregrine falcon, red-tailed hawk and others. Don’t miss this outdoor celebration of the arrival of spring to the mountains.

The registration fee for participation is $10 for adults, $3 for youths 13-17, and children 12 and under are free. Pre-registration is encouraged; combined packages that include lodging, select meals and all event programs are also available. Registration fees are waived for those purchasing packages. To request additional program information e-mail Dean.Henson@ky.gov. To book a combined package, phone the Guest Services Desk at (800) 325-1712.

Pine Mountain State Resort is located south of Pineville, Ky. on US 25E and 10 miles north of Middlesboro, Ky. From I-75 South or North, take exit 29 at Corbin onto US 25E, then travel south on 25E, approximately 34 miles to Pineville, Ky. Continuing on 25E south, to the park entrances are located about 1.5 miles south of Pineville. Buses and larger vehicles should use the south entrance, just past Wasioto Winds Golf Course. The Herndon J. Evans lodge is located 4.5 miles from the park entrance; park signs mark the route.

Filed Under: Blog, Featured, Kentucky Birds, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Springtime in Kentucky Tagged With: , , ,

Pine Mountain State Resort Park Will Host Winter Photography Weekend

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Pine Mountain State Resort Park is set to provide off-season adventure with their upcoming Winter Photography Weekend on January 28-30.  The event features a digital photography competition, evening picture shows, and the exceptional photographic work and instruction of Tim Webb of Richmond, Kentucky.

Making good photographs in winter is a unique challenge.  The vibrant green of spring is vanquished and the azure blue of autumn skies is obscured by thick cloud cover.  It’s gray and white and winter all around, but there’s much more out there to engage the adventurous than first meets the eye, you just have to possess the will to find it… and take pictures of it!

The adventure lies in the pursuit of finding the right shot to satisfy the prescribed photo competition categories.  In the doing, participants explore mountain landscapes, both on foot and by car, searching for just the right shot, trusting that they’ll know it when they see it.  It’s truly an outdoor adventure that engages the senses.  And, it’s fun!

For those interested in participating there are a few things you need to know.  Perhaps most importantly, is the fact that you must own or have access to a computer with appropriate image evaluation and adjustment software to prepare your images for entry into the competition.  You must also provide your own CD and copy your images to it before submission.  The park doesn’t provide computers for participant use.  Some image “touch ups” are permitted but there are limitations.  Details on all these matters will be addressed in the registration packet received at event sign-in.

It’s also mandatory that all photographers be registered before beginning to shoot for the competition.  Advanced registration is recommended, to do so contact the park.  Official registration and sign-in will be conducted from 12:00 – 9:00 pm (EST) on Friday, January 28.  Official contest categories and other competition guidelines will be made available at sign-in.  All CD’s containing competition entries must be turned in at the Lower Lodge Lobby by 5:00 pm (EST) on Saturday, January 29.  The registration fee is $30 per person.  Packages that include meals and lodging are also available.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park offers spectacular mountain views from the dining room and a quality dining experience afforded at few other places in the region.

For more event info, contact the park at 606-337-3066 or 800-325-1712.



Filed Under: Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: ,

Kentucky Adventures in Fall and Winter… There’s Still Plenty to Do!

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Panther Creek Park in Owensboro, Kentucky

The end of summer doesn’t mark the end of adventure in Kentucky! There are plenty of fun things left to do and wonderful things to see during the fall and winter months in Kentucky.  For one thing, hiking the trails in our beautiful state parks and city parks (like Panther Creek Park, pictured above) isn’t just fun, it’s good for you.

If you take a camera, you’ll find photo opportunities everywhere you look.  My dad was an avid photographer and he’d take some amazing pictures – not just of the gorgeous roses in his rose beds, but of trees, sunsets, hills, animals, etc.  He’d have his favorite pictures enlarged and my mom would mat and frame them. They made beautiful art work for the walls – art work that just LOOKED expensive.

If you have a really good camera and an even better eye for photography, it’s something you might want to consider.  Pictures like these would make cherished Christmas presents.

Head Outdoors this Fall and Winter in Kentucky

“It’s great to get outside during the cooler temperatures during this time of year in Kentucky,” said First Lady Jane Beshear. “There’s plenty of nature to see and experience throughout our state and being outside is a good way to get healthy and stay fit.”

Here is a listing of some adventure tourism events in Kentucky during November and December. To learn about other events, visit www.tourism.ky.gov/outdoors/.

NOV. 6, 2010
MOONBOW TRAIL TREK
Location: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
7351 Highway 90
Corbin, Ky. 40701
Fee: Contact Park
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Details: Hikers can choose a challenging 4.5 or 10.8 mile trek through the beautiful Cumberland River Gorge. T-Shirts and refreshments will be available and there will be shuttle service to the trail head. Contact:  Bret Smitley or Steve Gilbert @ 606-528-4131 or Bret.Smitley@ky.gov / Steve.Gilbert@ky.gov.

NOV. 6, 2010
THE ECOLOGY OF SUSTAINIBILITY
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members: $8; Non-members: $10 (Registration required)
Time: 10:30 a.m. – noon

Details: This program explores a foundation for sustainable living that is rooted in our understanding of the relationship we have with ecology and place. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or email: sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
NATURE BOOK FAIR
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Details: Join the fun at this exceptional book event at Bernheim’s Visitor Center.  Enjoy music and light refreshments while you shop for the best selection of nature titles.  There are books for everyone, from the young bud to seasoned naturalist.  Help Bernheim celebrate the first year of the expanded Nature Bookshop, and “grow” your own nature library from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or email: sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
POLLYWOG PLAY PARTIES: CATCHING THE WIND
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 10:30 a.m. – noon

Details: Pollywog play parties combine music, art, language and outside play to teach about nature themes.  Led by engaging child educators, pollywog play parties provide take home lessons for outdoor play learning.  In November pollywogs will be “Catching the Wind” through stories, songs and hands-on activities.  Come to Bernheim monthly on each first Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to noon to connect your family with nature in exciting ways.  Sponsored by PNC Bank, pollywog play parties are free for everyone (free for members and free with admission to Bernheim for non-members).  Class sizes are limited so call (502) 955-8512 by the Friday before the program to reserve your place in the pollywog pond. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6, 2010
ECO KIDS ADVENTURES IN NATURE: THE AUTUMN LIFE OF PLANTS
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 1-4 p.m.; On Your Own Challenge 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Details: The ECO in Bernheim’s ECO Kids programs stands for Every Child Outdoors.  Each first and third Saturday at Bernheim, ECO Kids Adventures in Nature provides kids and families with opportunities to get outside for play, fresh air and to learn about nature.  ECO Kids programs are free for members and included with admission for non-members.  On Saturday, Nov. 6, the focus is “The Autumn Life of Plants.”  Autumn is a busy time for plants, with colors changing and leaves falling.  Discovery Stations at the Visitor Center will be available from 1-4 p.m.  There is also an on-your-own challenge:  Autumn Plant Bingo.  Challenge sheets are available in the Visitor Center between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.  Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 6-7, 2010
A KENTUCKY WOODSMEN WEEKEND
Location: Fort Boonesborough State Park
4375 Boonesborough Rd.
Richmond, Ky. 40475
Fee:  $50
Time: Call park for exact times

Details: A weekend seminar for re-enactors, historians, educators and others that are interested in learning about life on the Frontier. Detailed presentations based on documentation, covering many aspects of the lives of long hunters, farmers, traders, scouts and others. Fee is $50 per person, you must pre-register, and attendance is limited to 50. Contact:  Phil Gray @ 859-527-3131 or Phil.Gray@ky.gov.

NOV. 7, 2010
WILD EDIBLES OF AUTUMN
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $15; Non-members $20
Time: 1-3 p.m.

Details: We’ve all heard, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”  Bernheim’s Wren Smith believes this old adage provides a pathway for all of us toward deeper and more heart-felt connections with nature and this place we call home. On Sunday, Nov. 7 from 1-3 p.m., join Bernheim for Wild Edibles of Autumn. Learn to safely and responsibly prepare foods from acorns, walnuts, hickories, persimmons and more. Smith has over 25 years experience with wild foods, and her Wild Autumn Salad, a festive mix of greens, dried persimmons, toasted hickory nuts and gorgonzola, will be just one of many “less than tame” recipes shared.  Advance registration and payment is required, call (502) 955-8512.

Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 13, 2010
THE ART OF OBSERVATION
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim Members $8 ; Non-members: $10
Time: 1-2 p.m.

Details: Increase your nature observation skills with this fun and rewarding program at Bernheim.  Discover how your ability to see natural treasure is connected to seeing patterns and details amid a clutter of visual stimuli. With practice, patience and instruction, you will learn basic skills to help you be more aware and attentive to your surroundings.  For adults and children over six.  Register by calling (502) 955-8512.

Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 13-14, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45.

Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510 or Sue.Thomas@ky.gov.

NOV. 20, 2010
ECO KIDS ADVENTURES IN NATURE: THE AUTUMN LIFE OF ANIMALS
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Free
Time: 1-4 p.m.; On Your Own Challenge 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Details: The ECO in Bernheim’s ECO Kids programs stands for Every Child Outdoors.  Each first and third Saturday at Bernheim, ECO Kids Adventures in Nature provides kids and families with opportunities to get outside for play, fresh air and to learn about nature.  ECO Kids programs are free for members and included with admission for non-members.  On Saturday, Nov. 20, the focus is “The Autumn Life of Animals.”  Autumn is a busy time for nature’s animals, with migration, food storage and hibernation.  Discovery Stations at the Visitor Center will be available from 1-4 p.m.  There is also an on-your-own challenge:  Thinking Like a Critter.  Challenge sheets are available in the Visitor Center between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 20, 2010
CANOEING FOR BEGINNERS
Location: Natural Bridge State Resort Park
2135 Natural Bridge Rd.
Slade, Ky. 40376
Fee: $30 per person includes instruction, canoe, paddle and life jacket
Time: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m

Details: Learn the basics of canoeing on Mill Creek Lake at Natural Bridge and then experience river canoeing on the beautiful Red River within the Red River Gorge Geological Area. The river trip is 8 miles on an enjoyable class I section of the Red River. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration fee of $30 per person includes instruction, canoe, paddle and life jacket. For more information contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov. Contact:  Tyler Morgan @ 606-663-2214 or Tyler.Morgan@ky.gov.

NOV. 21, 2010
FULL “FROST” MOON HIKE
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $8; Non-members: $12
Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Details: Bernheim night hikes are great opportunities to relax in the beauty of nature bathed in the light of a full moon.  Interpretive naturalists will guide you and provide information about night ecology, lunar lore and exciting tales.  Each full moon program is timed to begin near sunset and during the rise of a full moon over the tree tops.  In order to walk without flashlights, all full moon programs keep to open areas and established trails.  While cloud cover doesn’t usually cancel Bernheim night programs, severe weather sometimes does.  Please call between 3-5 p.m. on the day of the program to find out about last minute changes due to weather conditions.  Dress for the weather and outdoor hiking.  Please note that while Bernheim does allow dogs on a leash, we ask that you leave your furry friends at home for group hikes.  Registration is required; call (502) 955-8512. Contact: Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

NOV. 27, 2010
NATURALIST WALK
Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
2499 Highway 245
Clermont, Ky. 40110
Fee: Bernheim members $8; Non-members: $12
Time: 1-2:30 p.m.

Details: Learn how to view nature through the eyes of a naturalist during this walk with Bernheim’s Whitney Wurzel, whose field methods combine wacky science and creative exploration into one adventure. By the end of this walk, naturalists of all ages will discover a world brimming with endless connections, untold stories and fascinating details.  Registration is required; call (502) 955-8512. Contact Susan Ritter @ 502-955-8512 or sritter@bernheim.org.

DEC. 3-4, 2010
SUNRISE ELK VIEWING TOUR
Location: Pine Mountain State Resort Park
1050 State Park Rd.
Pineville, Ky. 40977
Fee: $25 per person, $15 (for children 6 & under)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Details: Pine Mountain State Resort Park continues its series of guided fall/winter elk tours in 2010-11. With sightings recorded for every tour over the last three years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be the current top-end nature experience available in Kentucky today. Participants must register in advance by contacting the park’s guest services desk at (800) 325.1712. Don’t delay; the tours fill quickly! Overnight accommodations are also available; lodging reservations must be made separately. The tour fee is $25 per persons ($15 children 6 & under) and includes the Kentucky’s Elk Herd presentation on Friday evening, and the continental breakfast and guided tour on Saturday morning. Participation in the Friday evening natural history program about elk is strongly recommended, as it serves as an invaluable enhancement to your enjoyment of the Saturday tour. Additional Sunrise Elk Viewing Tour Dates: Nov. 6, 2010, Dec. 4, 2010, Jan. 8, 2011, Jan. 15, 2011, Jan. 22, 2011, Feb. 5 2011, Feb. 26, 2011 and March 12, 2011. Contact:  Dean Henson, Park Naturalist @ 606-337-3066 or Dean.Henson@ky.gov.

DEC. 4-5, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m.-11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the Elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510 or Sue.Thomas@ky.gov.

DEC. 11-12, 2010
HORSE CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTING CLINIC
Location: Hidden Cave Ranch
877 Thrasher Rd.
Burkesville, Ky. 42717
Fee: $450
Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Details: TWO DAY HANDS-ON CLINIC INCLUDES: Equine Skeletal Anatomy DVD*; Classroom lectures with real bones;
Equine Chiropractic Adjusting DVD;
Canine Chiropractic Adjusting DVD *; Segment on Dog Adjusting Techniques;
Basic Saddle Fitting Segment;
Anatomy Workbook with picture demonstration;
Equine Chiropractic Technique Workbook with demo pictures; and Hands-on Supervision by Dr. Hampton and State Licensed Veterinarian. Lunch, snacks and drinks included both days.
Contact: Registration and Clinic questions contact Dr. Bill Hampton @ 970-903-8399 or equinechiro@centurytel.net.  Contact Hidden Cave Ranch @ 270-433-3225 or marion@hiddencaveranch.com.

DEC. 18-19, 2010
FALL ELK WATCH
Location: Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
4441 KY Highway 1833
Buckhorn, Ky. 41721
Fee: Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) (see details)
Time: 5:45 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Details: Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. Morning tours leave the park at about 5:45 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single)includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. Contact:  Sue Thomas @ 606-398-7510.

And, of course…. the most important thing of all. For the most adventure, fun, and excitement during the fall and winter months in the state of Kentucky… Don’t miss a minute of UK Basketball, U of L Basketball, and WKU Basketball.

Let the games begin!!!!

Filed Under: Autumn Fun, Blog, Buckhorn, Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Corbin, Featured, Kentucky Wildlife, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: ,

Elk Tours Offered at Three Kentucky State Parks

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One of the things I love most about the beautiful state of Kentucky is our wildlife and all of the wonderful opportunities we have to enjoy such magnificent animals.  If you’ve never taken an elk viewing tour at one of our resort parks, mark your calendar and take the family this year.

Elk viewing tours at three Eastern Kentucky resort parks will once again be offered this fall and winter.

Visitors to Jenny Wiley, Buckhorn Lake and Pine Mountain can choose a weekend, stay at a state park lodge or cottage and arise early to enjoy one of these unique tours. Participants should bring their cameras – there should be great photography opportunities. The largest elk herds are located on privately owned lands that are normally closed to the public. This is one of the few opportunities available for the public to see the greatest number of elk.

The return of elk to the region is considered to be one of Kentucky’s biggest wildlife management success stories. The animals, after being gone from the state for 150 years, were returned in 1997. They now number 11,000.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg

2010 dates: Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26 (Elk Night Sept. 18); Oct. 9, 10 16, 17, 23, 24; Nov. 6, 13, 20; Dec. 4.

2011 dates: Jan. 15, 22, 23, 29 (Buffalo Night Jan. 22); Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26; March 5, 12

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is sponsoring elk tours at a cost of $25/person or $15/children 12 and under.  This fee includes your transportation via van to the viewing sites and a continental breakfast.  The park also offers packages that include lodging.  Because these tours fill up quickly, registration is suggestion. Special group and business tours are available. Call 1-800-325-0142.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

2010 dates: Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26; Oct. 23, 24; Nov. 13, 14; Dec. 4, 5, 18, 19.

2011 dates: Jan. 15, 16, 29, 30; Feb. 19, 20, 26, 27; March 12, 13, 19, 20.

Enjoy seeing these majestic animals during their rutting season. With sightings recorded on every tour over the last three years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be memorable wildlife-viewing experiences.  Participants must register by calling 800-325-0058. Participation in the natural history program the evening prior to the trip is strongly recommended.  Participants are also encouraged to bring binoculars, camera, water and snacks. The tour van leaves the park between 5:45 a.m. and 6:35 a.m. depending on the date, and usually returns to the park at around 10:30 a.m. Package price of $150 per couple ($110 per single) includes one night’s lodging, dinner on night of arrival, bagged breakfast and transportation to and from the elk preserve the following morning. Stay the night before or after with package for an extra $45. The cost for the tour only is $20 and with a bagged breakfast it’s $30. Call 1-800-325-0058 for reservations and information.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

2010 dates: Nov. 6, Dec. 4

2011 dates: Jan. 8, 15, 22; Feb. 5, 26; March 12

Pine Mountain State Resort Park continues its series of guided fall/winter elk tours in 2010-11.  With sightings recorded for every tour over the last 3 years, guided elk viewing adventures have proven to be the current top-end nature experience available in Kentucky today.  Participants must register in advance by calling 800-325-1712.  Don’t delay; the tours fill quickly!  Overnight accommodations are also available, but lodging reservations must be made separately.

The tour fee is $25 per person ($15 children 6 & under) and includes the Kentucky’s Elk Herd presentation on Friday evening, and the continental breakfast and guided tour on Saturday morning.   Participation in the Friday evening natural history program is strongly recommended, as it will enhance the enjoyment of the Saturday tour.  Participants should also bring binoculars, camera, water and snacks. The Saturday tour van leaves the park between 5:45 a.m. and 6:35 a.m. depending on the date, and usually returns to the park at around 10:30 a.m.

For more information about these parks and other Kentucky State Parks, visit www.parks.ky.gov

The elk images in this post were taken on a visit to the Elk & Bison Prairie in the gorgeous Land Between the Lakes region.

Filed Under: Autumn Fun, Kentucky State Parks, Kentucky Wildlife, Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Winter in Kentucky Tagged With: , ,

Hawktoberfest at Pine Mountain State Resort Park

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Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Kentucky

Pine Mountain State Resort Park is offering a great weekend opportunity for anyone interested in fall colors and wildlife viewing with its Hawktoberfest Oct. 1-3.

The weekend is co-sponsored by Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

Guests can immerse themselves in the changing array of fall foliage and watchable wildlife during the peak of autumn raptor migration. The weekend features a wide variety of family activities, programs and presentations offered concurrently at both Pine Mountain State Resort Park and Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, just 10 miles south of Pine Mountain. Participation in all activities and programs at both parks is free.

Offerings will include observation techniques, raptor identification, morning birding walks, live birds of prey shows, a guided hawk watch from atop lofty Pinnacle Overlook, children’s activities and much more.  Don’t miss this opportunity for fall fun in the mountains!

Pine Mountain State Resort Park encompasses more than 1,500 acres with more than half dedicated as a state nature preserve.  The park features scenic landscapes, old growth forest and generous wildlife viewing opportunities.  Enjoy a panoramic mountain view while dining in the First Frontier Restaurant.  Lodging is also available in the Herndon J. Evans Lodge, contemporary cottages or rustic log cabins.  Pine Mountain was established as the state’s first state park in 1924 and is regarded as one of Kentucky’s last great natural places.

Pine Mountain State Resort is located one mile south of Pineville, Ky. on US 25E and 10 miles north of Middlesboro, Ky.  From I-75 South or North, take exit 29 at Corbin onto US 25E. 25E is a four-lane road to Pineville.

For more information or to make reservations, call 1-800-325-1712.

Click HERE for the Hawktoberfest agenda (pdf).  For more information about Pine Mountain State Resort Park (as well as Kentucky’s other outstanding stat parks), see the Pine Mountain State Resort Page section on Kentucky State Parks’ website.

Filed Under: Autumn Fun, Events, Fairs and Festivals, Pine Mountain State Resort Park Tagged With: , , , ,
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